Identifying and visualizing attributes of items based on attribute-based RFID tag proximity

ABSTRACT

A portable device receives a particular RFID signal identifying that a particular attribute is associated with a particular item placed proximate to the RFID tag emitting the particular RFID signal, wherein the particular RFID signal is identified from among a plurality of RFID signals, wherein a selection of the plurality of RFID signals are each associated with a separate attribute from among a plurality of attributes. The portable device displays a visual representation depicting that the particular item is associated with the particular attribute.

BACKGROUND

1. Technical Field

This invention relates in general to data processing systems and moreparticularly to identifying and visualizing RFID signals identifyingattributes of items positioned proximate to detected attribute-basedRFID tags.

2. Description of the Related Art

When one has dietary limitations it can be tedious to sort through itemsin a store to identify whether items are free of particular substancesor that only contain particular substances. For example, one withdietary limitations may have to sort through items in a store to finditems that are gluten free, sugar free, sodium free, or nut free. Themore ingredients that an item contains, the more time consuming itbecomes for shoppers to pull items off shelves and read ingredient liststo identify items that meet the shopper's dietary limitations or otherpreferences. In addition, in other storefronts with numerous consumableor non-consumable items, it can be tedious for a shopper to sort throughmultiple items to find an item that has or does not have a particularattribute that the shopper prefers.

BRIEF SUMMARY

In view of the foregoing, there is a need for a method, system, andprogram product for assisting a user with identifying specific itemswithin a store that meet the user's preferences from among the itemscurrently viewable by a user within a store as the user travels throughthe store. In addition, there is a need for a method, system, andprogram for a seller to identify which of the seller's items haveparticular attributes and to modify which attributes are detectablewithin the store, all in an economically efficient manner.

In one embodiment, a method for identifying items is directed toreceiving, by a computer system, a particular RFID signal identifyingthat a particular attribute is associated with a particular item placedproximate to the RFID tag emitting the particular RFID signal, whereinthe particular RFID signal is identified from among a plurality of RFIDsignals, wherein a selection of the plurality of RFID signals are eachassociated with a separate attribute from among a plurality ofattributes, by identifying an RFID signal identifier from the particularRFID signal comparing the RFID signal identifier with at least oneattribute-based signal characteristic, and responsive to the RFID signalidentifier matching the at least one attribute-based signalcharacteristic, identifying a particular attribute mapping from among aselection of attribute mappings that maps the RFID signal identifier tothe particular attribute. The method is directed to displaying, by thecomputer system, a visual representation depicting that the particularitem is associated with the particular attribute.

In another embodiment, a system for identifying items comprises acomputer system operative to receive a particular RFID signalidentifying that a particular attribute is associated with a particularitem placed proximate to an RFID tag emitting the particular RFIDsignal, wherein the particular RFID signal is identified from among aplurality of RFID signals, wherein a selection of the plurality of RFIDsignals are each associated with a separate attribute from among aplurality of attributes. The system comprises the computer systemoperative to identify an RFID signal identifier from the particular RFIDsignal. The system comprises the computer system operative to comparethe RFID signal identifier with at least one attribute-based signalcharacteristic. The system comprises the computer system, responsive tothe RFID signal identifier matching the at least one attribute-basedsignal characteristic, operative to identify a particular attributemapping from among a selection of attribute mappings that maps the RFIDsignal identifier to the particular attribute. The system comprises thecomputer system operative to display a visual representation depictingthat the particular item is associated with the particular attribute.

In another embodiment, a computer program product for identifying itemscomprises a tangible computer-readable storage medium having programcode embodied therewith. The program code is executable by a computer aparticular attribute is associated with a particular item placedproximate to an RFID tag emitting the particular RFID signal wherein theparticular RFID signal is identified from among a plurality of RFIDsignals, wherein a selection of the plurality of RFID signals are eachassociated with a separate attribute from among a plurality ofattributes. The program code is executable by a computer to identify anRFID signal identifier from the particular RFID signal, compare the RFIDsignal identifier with at least one attribute-based signalcharacteristic, and responsive to the RFID signal identifier matchingthe at least one attribute-based signal characteristic, identify aparticular attribute mapping from among a selection of attributemappings that maps the RFID signal identifier to the particularattribute. The program code is executable by a computer to display avisual representation depicting that the particular item is associatedwith the particular attribute.

In another embodiment, RFID tags output signals with identifiers and theidentifiers are each mapped to a particular attribute from amongmultiple assigned attributes. RFID tags are positioned proximate toitems in a store, where the items have the attribute mapped to by thesignal output by the RFID tag. A portable device identifies RFID signalidentifiers from the signals output by RFID tags, identifies theattribute currently assigned to the RFID signal identifier, andvisualizes the RFID signal identifier to identify the attribute within adisplay device, to assist a user in identifying items with attributesmeeting the user's preferences from among the items currently within theviewing capture range of the portable device.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

The novel features believed characteristic of one or more embodiments ofthe invention are set forth in the appended claims. The one or moreembodiments of the invention itself however, will best be understood byreference to the following detailed description of an illustrativeembodiment when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings,wherein:

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a portable devicefor identifying attribute-based RFID signal identifiers from RFID tagsand visualizing the RFID signal identifiers within the translucentdisplay interface to visually identify attributes of items currentlyviewable by a user that are placed proximate to the RFID tags;

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating one example of a visual mappingof items within a user's view with attributes that match the user'spreferred attributes;

FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating one example of an embodiment of adistributed network environment for managing item attributeidentification and visualization;

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating one example of a computer systemin which the present invention may be implemented;

FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating one example of a user interfacefor selecting user attribute preferences and user output preferences;

FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating one example of a statisticsinterface for selecting user attribute statistics reporting preferences;

FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating one example of an RFID tagmapping interface for selecting attribute-based signal characteristicsand for mapping attribute-based identifiers to attributes; and

FIG. 8 is a high level logic flowchart depicts a process and program foridentifying and visualizing attributes of items based on the proximityof attribute-based RFID signals to the items.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following description, for the purposes of explanation, numerousspecific details are set forth in order to provide a thoroughunderstanding of the present invention. It will be apparent, however, toone skilled in the art that the present invention may be practicedwithout these specific details. In other instances, well-knownstructures and devices are shown in block diagram form in order to avoidunnecessarily obscuring the present invention.

In addition, in the following description, for purposes of explanation,numerous systems are described. It is important to note, and it will beapparent to one skilled in the art, that the present invention mayexecute in a variety of systems, including a variety of computer systemsand electronic devices operating any number of different types ofoperating systems.

With reference now to the Figures, and in particular with reference nowto FIG. 1, a block diagram illustrates an example of a portable devicefor identifying attribute-based RFID signal identifiers from RFID tagsand visualizing the RFID signal identifiers within the translucentdisplay interface to visually identify attributes of items currentlyviewable by a user that are placed proximate to the RFID tags.

In the example, a store location 110 includes multiple items, such asitem 102, with one or more reusable and repositionable, attribute-basedRFID tags each currently placed proximate to one or more of the items,such as RFID tags 104, 106, and 108 placed proximate to item 102. In theexample, store location 110 may include multiple types of display areasand fixtures for holding or displaying items within a store. Item 102may represent a single physical item or multiple instances of a sameproduct within a particular area, such as multiple loaves of aparticular brand and type of bread.

In the example, RFID tags 104, 106, and 108 may be affixed to displayapparatus, such as a shelf, or directly to item 102. In one example,RFID tags 104, 106, and 108 are set to a frequency that allows RFID tags104, 106, and 108 to be read when placed behind item 102 in a displayapparatus. In addition, in the example, RFID tags 104, 106, and 108 maybe incorporated into a price display system proximate to item 102.

For a user to receive information about the items within a store, suchas item 102, the user within the store accesses a portable device 120,wherein portable device 120 assists a user by identifying items withinthe store with attributes meeting a user's preferences and visualizingRFID signals identifying the preferred attributes currently viewablethrough portable device 120. Portable device 120 may represent one ormore types of portable computing systems as described with reference toFIG. 4, including, but not limited to, a portable telephony device, aportable tablet device, and a portable image device. Portable device 120may represent a device that is portable in that portable device 120 iscarried by the user. In another example, portable device 120 mayrepresent a device that is portable in that portable device 120 isaffixed to a moveable store cart used by the user.

In the example, portable device 120 includes an RFID reader 122 forreading RFID tags, such as RFID tags 104, 106, and 108. Each of RFIDtags 104, 106, and 108 may include an antenna and microchip embedded onthe RFID tag. The microchip stores and processes information andmodulates and demodulates a radio-frequency (RF) signal. The antennareceives and transmits a radio frequency signal. Each of RFID tags 104,106, and 108 may be passive, having no internal power supply,semi-passive, with a small battery, or active, with its own internalpower source.

In one example, RFID reader 122 is a transceiver that transmitselectromagnetic waves that are received by the antenna and microchip ofeach RFID tag. The microchip of each RFID tag is activated by theelectromagnetic wave and outputs electromagnetic waves at anotherfrequency to send a return signal to the transceiver. The return signalmay also include a copy of data embedded in the microchip. Thetransceiver of RFID reader 122 converts the received waves into digitaldata.

In the embodiment, each of RFID tags 104, 106, and 108 are described asattribute-based, set to output electromagnetic waves with a readablesignal identifier, illustrated by identifiers “A”, “B”, or “C”, whichmap to attributes in attribute mappings 124. In particular, RFID reader122 reads each readable signal from RFID tags 104, 106, and 108, and mayalso read signals from additional RFID tags, including RFID tags that donot output attribute-based signal identifiers. RFID reader 122 convertsthe received waves into an RFID signal identifier, where the RFID signalidentifier may identify one or more of the frequency of the signal wavesand the data digitized from the wave. An identification controller 142of an attribute visualization controller 140 of portable device 120filters the RFID signal identifier from the RFID reader 122 to identifywhether the RFID signal identifier is an attribute-based identifier andto map an attribute-based identifier to an attribute. Attribute mappings124 include at least one attribute-based signal characteristic foridentifying whether an RFID signal identifier is an attribute-basedidentifier. In addition, attribute mappings 124 include at least oneassignment of an attribute-based identifier to an attribute, for mappingattribute-based identifiers to attributes.

In one embodiment, each of RFID tags 104, 106, and 108 areattribute-based and also item-independent RFID tags. In one example,RFID tags 104, 106, and 108 are attribute-based RFID tags because eachof the RFID tags 104, 106, and 108 outputs a signal with anattribute-based identifier that maps to an attribute in attributemappings 124. In addition, in one example, RFID tags 104, 106, and 108are item-independent because the RFID tags are positionable proximate toitems that have the attribute mapped to by the attribute-based signalsoutput by each RFID tag, to identify attributes of items currentlypositioned proximate to the RFID tags, regardless of whether the RFIDtags output data specific to any particular item. In the example, RFIDtags 104, 106, and 108 are currently positioned proximate to item 102and identify attributes of item 102, however each of RFID tags 104, 106,and 108 identify attributes based on positional proximity to an item,therefore each of RFID tags 104, 106, and 108 is item-independent andmay be individually repositioned proximate to a different item, toidentify the same attributes in that different item.

By implementing attribute-based, item-independent RFID tags, a sellermay reuse and reposition the RFID tags throughout a store as storedisplays change. In one example, a seller may have inventory of multipleRFID tags set to a readable attribute-based identifier of “A”, asdescribed with reference to RFID tag 104, and place the RFID tags with areadable attribute-based identifier of “A” proximate to items within thestore that have the attribute mapped to the readable attribute-basedidentifier of “A”. The seller may move the RFID tags set to a readableattribute-based identifier of “A” to different locations within thestore, proximate to different items, as display positions of itemschange.

In addition, by implementing attribute-based, item-independent RFIDtags, a seller may customize the mapping of attribute-based identifiersto attributes in attribute mappings 124. In one example, a seller mayreset a particular attribute-based identifier to map to a new ordifferent attribute in attribute mappings 124. In another example, aseller may add a new attribute-based identifier to map to a new ordifferent attribute in attribute mappings 124.

In another embodiment, RFID tags 104, 106, and 108 may be used in anitem-independent manner, but RFID tags 104, 106, and 108 may outputsignals with item-specific or brand specific data, in addition to anattribute-based identifier. For example, RFID tags 104, 106, and 108 maybe programmed with item or brand specific data, but also include anattribute-based identifier, and be reusable across one or more items.

Attribute mappings 124 may be specified by one or more of a user, astore, a group of stores, a governing entity, and a standards committee.In one example, attribute mappings 124 include a universal,standards-based mapping of standardized attribute-based identifiers tostandardized attributes. In another example, attribute mappings 124include one or more sets of mappings of attribute-based identifiersspecific to the RFID tags used in a particular store mapped tostandardized attributes and attributes selected by the store and furtherspecified for one or more locations. Identification controller 142 mayaccess a current location of portable device 120 and select a particularset of mappings for attribute mappings 124 based on the sets of mappingsspecified for a current location.

The attribute-based signal characteristics set in attribute mappings 124for identifying which RFID signal identifiers are attribute-basedidentifiers may be set to one or more types of frequencies or one ormore types of data and may be specified by store, by item, by region, orby other criteria. For example, an attribute-based signal characteristicmay be set to a specific frequency, such that any RFID signals of thespecific frequency detected by RFID reader 122 are filtered asattribute-based identifiers. In another example, an attribute-basedsignal characteristic may be set to a specific identifier, such as aspecific number or word, such as “ATTR” in the data to identify anattribute-based identifier.

In one example, RFID tags 104, 106, and 108 are programmed with readableattribute-based identifiers specified by the frequency of the signaloutput by each tag. For example, each of RFID tags 104, 106, and 108 mayeach be set to output electromagnetic waves at different frequencies,when each tag is activated by an RFID reader, such as RFID reader 122.RFID reader 122 reads the signal from an RFID tag and generates an RFIDsignal identifier with a read frequency to identification controller142. Identification controller 142 identifies that the particularfrequency in the RFID signal identifier read matches an attribute-basedsignal characteristic in attribute mappings 124 and maps the particularfrequency to an attribute based on a mapping for the frequency specifiedin attribute mappings 124. For example, as illustrated, the RFID tagsare set to return waves of “frequency A” for RFID tag 104, “frequency B”for RFID tag 106, and “frequency C” for RFID tag 108, where “frequencyA”, “frequency B”, and “frequency C” each represent a differentfrequency setting electromagnetic waves output by each of the RFID tags.For example, each of “frequency A”, “frequency B”, and “frequency C” mayrepresent low frequencies within the 125 KHz to 134 KHz frequency band,each set to a different frequency, to implement RFID tags that can beread within a 1.5 foot radius or may represent high frequencies withinthe 13.553 MHz to 13.567 MHz frequency band, each set to a differentfrequency, to implement RFID tags that can be read within a three footradius.

In another example, RFID tags 104, 106, and 108 are programmed withreadable attribute-based identifiers specified by the data in the signaloutput by each tag. For example, each of RFID tags 104, 106, and 108 maybe set to output electromagnetic waves with readable data representingan attribute-based identifier, such as a number, a word, or otheridentifier, when an RFID reader, such as RFID reader 122, activates eachtag. For example, as illustrated, the RFID tags are set to return waveswith data of “A” for RFID tag 104, data of “B” for RFID tag 106, anddata of “C” for RFID tag 108. RFID reader 122 reads the signal from anRFID tag and generates an RFID signal identifier with read data toidentification controller 142. Identification controller 142 identifiesthat data in the RFID signal identifier matches an attribute-basedsignal characteristic in attribute mappings 124 and maps the data to anattribute based on a mapping for the data specified in attributemappings 124. In another example, the data “A” may also be implementedby using a number, word, or other identifier that is mappable to anattribute. In addition, the data “A” may also be implemented by usingthe name of a particular attribute. In another example, RFID tags 104,106, and 108 may be programmed with readable signals that specifyattribute-based identifiers and other item-independent identifiers, suchas a sale identifier.

In one embodiment, in addition to identification controller 142detecting an attribute-based identifiers and mapping the signalfrequency or digital data in the attribute-based identifier to anattribute according to attribute mappings 124, identification controller142 filters the attribute to only visualize currently identifiedattributes that match preferred attributes in user attribute preferences128. User attribute preferences 128 may include attribute preferences ofselected attributes from among multiple detectable attributes, where theattribute preferences may represent dietary restrictions, dietarypreferences, or other types of preferences. User attribute preferences128 may be specified for one or more users and may be specified bystore, aisle, or other location.

To visualize attributes of items, portable device 120 includes an imagecapture device 130 that captures a single image or real-time video of anarea viewable by image capture device 130, readable by attributevisualization controller 140. In addition, to visualize attributes ofitems, an overlay filter controller 134 of attribute visualizationcontroller 140 detects the viewable area captured by image capturedevice 130 and identifies, through the location coordinates calculatedby a location calculator 126 of attribute visualization controller 140,within the viewable area, the location of the RFID tags outputting RFIDsignal identifiers including attribute-based identifiers mapped toattributes preferred by the user. Next, an overlap filter controller 134of attribute visualization controller 140 generates images for outputwithin an overlay output interface 132, overlaying the selected RFIDtags within an overlay output interface 132, to visualize the locationsof the selected RFID tags and the items proximate to the selected RFIDtags and visualize the attributes through characteristics of the imageattributes. In one example, each type of attribute may be assigned adifferent hue, pattern type, shape type, or other graphical attribute.User output preferences 136 may specify the output preferences for aparticular user, for the images generated for output within overlayoutput interface 132.

In one example, attribute visualization controller 140 includes locationcalculator 126 for calculating location coordinates of the RFID tagsemitting signals with attribute-based identifiers mapping to attributespreferred by the user. In one example, location calculator 126 mayestimate the position of an RFID tag emitting a particular signal byanalyzing the signal wavelength and other characteristics of the signal.In another example, location calculator 126 may estimate the position ofan RFID tag emitting a particular signal by analyzing the image capturedby image capture device 130 to identify the position of RFID tagsidentified by a particular graphical pattern printed on attribute-basedsignal RFID tags and analyzing the signals emitted by the identifiedRFID tags to identify the originating RFID tag for each signal. Inanother example, location calculator 126 may estimate the position of anRFID tag emitting a particular signal by analyzing the direction orangle of the signal, by detecting an LED light turned on from the RFIDtag when the tag is read through an image capture device 130, and bymatching a signal to an LED light. In one example, RFID tags 104, 106,and 108 may each include an LED light that is powered on when RFIDreader 122 reads each tag. In addition, RFID tags 104, 106, and 108 mayinclude LED lights of a particular hue, identifying that the RFID tagsemit attribute-based signals or may include LED lights of differenthues, where the hue of the LED light of an RFID may also identify theattribute mapped to an attribute-based identifier in the RFID signal. Inadditional or alternate embodiments, location calculator 126 may detectadditional or alternate signals, images, and other data and estimate theposition of RFID tags using additional or alternate types of locationanalysis methods.

In the embodiment, overlay output interface 132 may include multipletypes of translucent interfaces and other types of interfaces. In oneexample, overlay output interface 132 is a viewable screen, wherein theviewable screen provides an interface for output by overlay filtercontroller 134 of the image currently captured by image capture device130 with the RFID graphical visualization images overlaid on the outputimage. In another example, overlay output interface 132 is a pair ofinteractive goggles, wherein the goggles include a transparent screenwhich provides an interface for output by overlay filter controller 134of the RFID graphical visualization images overlaid in the transparentscreen on the RFID tags visible by the user through the goggles.

By overlaying images in overlay output interface 132 identifying theRFID tags identifying attributes preferred by the user, portable device120 effectively generates and outputs a visual mapping of the locationsof particular items, within the user's view, that have preferredattributes, where the particular items are placed proximate to theidentified RFID tags. As the user travels through a store or other areadisplaying items tagged by attribute-based RFID tags and the user's viewchanges, the visual mapping of the locations of items with attributesthat match the user's preferred attributes also changes.

As a portable device 120 is used by a user within a store or other area,identification controller 142 may track attribute-based usage data 144and share attribute-based usage data 144 according to sharingpreferences set in user output preferences 136. In one example,identification controller 142 may count a number of times each attributeis mapped to in attribute-based usage data 144. In another example,identification controller 142 may store a record of user selections ofuser attribute preferences 128 in attribute-based usage data 144. A usermay select to view the attribute-based usage data via overlay outputinterface 132. In addition, a user may select, in user outputpreferences 136, to select to share the attribute-based usage data, userattribute preferences 128, and other information, with one or moreentities via a network.

As described herein, an attribute may describe one or morecharacteristics of an item or may describe one or more characteristicsthat are absent in an item. As described herein, attributes ofconsumable items may specify ingredients found in the consumable itemsand attributes of consumable items may specify ingredients absent fromthe consumable items. While examples described herein are made withreference to food items and with reference to consumable attributes, theitems referred to herein may also represent non-food items andnon-consumable attributes. Any entity may define attributes of any typeof item and may specify the mapping of RFID signal identifiers todefined attributes in attribute mappings 124.

In one example of non-consumable items and non-consumable attributes,items may include hardware, such as nails, in a hardware store, wherethe different types of nails are made from different types of materials,such as asphalt, copper, and steel, and have different types of headattributes, such as broadhead, flathead, and no head. In the example,the attributes identified by RFID tags placed proximate to each of thetypes of bolts identify one or more of the material attribute and thehead attribute of the nails.

In another example of a non-consumable items and non-consumableattributes, items may include supplies, such as pens, in an officesupply store, where the different types of pens have different linewidth attributes, such as 0.25 mm, 0.5 mm, 1 mm, and 2 mm. In theexample, the attributes identified by RFID tags placed proximate to eachof the types of pens identify the line width attribute of the pen.

While in the embodiment, attribute visualization controller 140 isillustrated within portable device 120, in another example, one or morecomponents of attribute visualization controller 140 may be implementedby RFID reader 122 or another component of portable device 120. Forexample, one or more functions of location calculator 126 may beimplemented by RFID reader 122 or another component of portable device120. In addition, while in the embodiment attribute visualizationcontroller 140 is illustrated within portable device 120, in anotherexample, one or more components of attribute visualization controller140 may be implemented on or accessed from another systemcommunicatively connected to portable device 120 via a networkconnection. Further, while in the embodiment a single instance ofattribute visualization controller 140 is illustrated, in otherembodiments, multiple instances of attribute visualization controller140 may be implemented in portable device 120, each specified for aseller or other entity, through the customization of attribute mappings124 and other components of attribute visualization controller 140.

In addition, while in the embodiment a single RFID reader 112 isillustrated reading three RFID tags, in other embodiments, multiple RFIDreaders may attempt to read the same tags at the same time or multipletags may be condensed in a single area, creating a dense RFID network.One skilled in the art will appreciate that one or more collisionavoidance protocols may be implemented within RFID readers and RFID tagsto avoid collisions within dense RFID network areas.

With reference now to FIG. 2, a block diagram illustrates one example ofa visual mapping of items within a user's view with attributes thatmatch the user's preferred attributes.

In the example, a store area 200 is physically located within a store orother physical location and illustrates the bounds of the current imagearea 220 that is captured by image capture device 130 of a particularuser's portable device 120. As previously noted, the portion of thedisplayed items within a store that is within the bounds of currentimage area 200 may change as the user travels through the store.

In the example, store area 200 includes multiple physical items,illustrated in the example as item X 202, item Y 204, and item Z 206. Inaddition, store area 200 includes a shelf 219, upon which the items areadisplayed.

In addition, in the example, store area 200 includes multipleattribute-based RFID tags currently positioned proximate to one or moreitems along shelf 219. For example, RFID tag 212 is positioned proximateto item X 202, RFID tags 214 and 216 are positioned proximate to item Y204, and RFID tag 218 is positioned proximate to item Z 206. In theexample, RFID tags 212 and 214 both output a signal with anattribute-based identifier for the attribute mapped to “A”, RFID tag 216outputs a signal with an attribute-based identifier for the attributemapped to “B”, and RFID tag 218 outputs a signal with an attribute-basedidentifier for the attribute mapped to “C”.

In the example, an attribute of “no gluten”, meaning the absence ofgluten, is mapped to the attribute-based identifier of “A” output in thesignals from RFID tags 212 and 214. In addition, an attribute of “norefined sugar”, meaning the absence of refined sugar, is mapped to theattribute-based identifier of “B” output in the signal from RFID tag216. An attribute of “no dairy”, meaning the absence of any dairyproducts, is mapped to the attribute-based identifier of “C” output inthe signal from RFID tag 218.

In addition, in the example, an RFID tag 208 affixed to item Y 204 isnot an attribute-based RFID tag. The RFID signal identifier read fromRFID tag 208 does not match an attribute-based signal characteristic andthe signal identifier does not map to an attribute.

In the example, current image area 220 represents the area controlledwithin overlay output interface 132. In the example, each of thephysical items in store area 200, including item X 202, item Y 204, anditem Z 206, are reflected in current image area 220 by imagesillustrated as item X 222, item Y 224, and item Z 226. In addition, inthe example, each of the physical RFID tags in store area 200, includingRFID tag 212, RFID tag 214, RFID tag 216, RFID tag 218, and RFID tag208, are reflected in current image area 200 by images illustrated asRFID tag 232, RFID tag 234, RFID tag 236, RFID tag 238, and RFID tag228, respectively.

In the example, current image area 220 also includes image overlays 242,244, and 246, which are positioned within current image area 220 withinoverlay output interface 132 to overlay the RFID tags that output asignal with an attribute-based identifier mapping to user preferredattributes, with a graphical image identifying and visualizing themapped to attribute. In the example, the user specifies in userattribute preferences 128 a preference to view items with attributes of“no gluten” as illustrated at reference numeral 250 and of “no refinedsugar” as illustrated at reference numeral 252. In addition, the userspecifies in user output preferences 136 a preference to view items withattributes of “no gluten” through a rectangular, transparent shadefilled graphical overlay image as illustrated at reference numeral 250and of “no refined sugar” through an oval, transparent crosshatch filledgraphical overlay image as illustrated at reference numeral 252. Theuser has not indicated a preference for visualizing items with theattribute of “no dairy”, therefore even though RFID tag 218 outputs asignal with an attribute-based identifier that maps to “no dairy”, theuser has indicated a preference not to have the attribute of “no dairy”visualized within current image area 220.

As to the visualization of the “no gluten” attribute preferred by theuser, in the example, image overlays 242 and 244 are placed using therectangular image type specified for “no gluten” as indicated atreference numeral 250, to reflect the RFID tags mapping to the attributeof “no gluten”, wherein the images of RFID tag 232 and RFID tag 234 arestill visible through image overlays 242 and 244. In addition, in theexample, as to the visualization of the “no refined sugar” attributepreferred by the user, in the example, image overlay 246 is placed usingthe oval image type specified for “no refined sugar” as indicated atreference numeral 252, to reflect the RFID tag mapping to the attributeof “no refined sugar”, wherein the image of RFID tag 236 is stillvisible through image overlay 246.

Based on the proximity of the image of item X 222 to image overlay 242and the proximity of the image of item Y 224 to image overlays 244 and246, the attributes of each of item X 222 and item Y 224 are visualizedwithin current image area 220. Although image overlays 242, 244 and 246are illustrated of similar size, image overlays may vary in size and mayvary in placement position. By visualizing the attributes of itemswithin a user's view based on the attribute-based signal read from anattribute-based RFID tag positioned proximate to the item, a customizedmapping of items based on attributes is provided for the user, withoutrequiring each item to be individually tagged with an RFID and withoutrequiring the data stored on any particular RFID tag to be specified fora particular item. In addition, by visualizing attributes of itemswithin a user's view based on the attribute-based signal read from anattribute-based RFID tag currently positioned proximate to the item,each user's portable device bears the performance load of identifyingand visualizing item attributes within a store, with minimal bearing ona store's server. Further, by visualizing attributes of items within auser's view based on the attribute-based signal read from anattribute-based RFID tag currently positioned proximate to the item, asthe attributes preferred by a particular user change a user only needupdate user attribute preferences 128 and as the attributes identifiedin a store change as new products are released, portable device 120 onlyneeds an update of the mappings identified in attribute mappings 124.

In the example, portable device 120 may read a signal from RFID tag 208,and other tags which output signals that do not include attribute-basedidentifiers. Portable device 120 may select to output data read from thesignal output 120 within current image area 220 or within another outputinterface of portable device 120, according to the type of data outputin the signal from RFID tag 208. In addition, portable device 120 maylimit output within current image area 220 to only image overlaysvisualizing mapped to attributes.

With reference now to FIG. 3, a block diagram illustrates one example ofan embodiment of a distributed network environment for managing itemattribute identification and visualization. In the example, in a networkenvironment 300, a network 302 communicatively connects multiplesystems, such as signal registration server 306, portable device 308,portable device 310, store server 312, user profile server 314, and anattribute statistics server 320. Network 302 may include, but is notlimited to, packet-switching networks, such as the Internet or anintranet, and telephony networks. In addition, network 302 may includerouters, switches, gateways and other hardware to enable a communicationchannel between systems communicatively connected to network 302.Further, while signal registration server 306, store server 312, userprofile server 314, and attribute statistics server 320 are describedwith reference to servers, each of the servers may be implemented withina distributed system, grid environment, cloud environment, or otherdistributed, on-demand system.

In the example, portable devices 308 and 310 may represent portabledevices such as portable device 120 described in FIG. 1. Portabledevices 308 and 310 may access, implement, or receive updates to one ormore components of attribute visualization controller 140 from one ormore of signal registration server 306, store server 312, user profileserver 314, and attribute statistics server 320.

In the example, signal registration server 306 maintains a current,standardized list of attribute-based signal characteristics and ofmappings of attribute-based identifiers to attributes, for updatingattribute mappings 124 for each of portable devices 308 and 310. Inaddition, signal registration server 306 may provide one or morecomponents of attribute visualization controller 140, configurable basedon the standardized mappings, for any seller, for access by portabledevices 308 and 310. For example, a government agency may establish aselection of standardized attributes and may establish standardized RFIDtag attribute-based signals to map the to the standardized attributes.

In the example, store server 312 may provide a current mapping table forupdating attribute mappings 124 at portable devices 308 and 310, wherestore server 312 specifies attribute-based signal characteristics andmappings of attribute-based identifiers to attributes for particularstore, group or brand. In addition, store server 312 may provideattribute visualization controller 140, specified for the store, foraccess by portable devices 308 and 310.

In the example, user profile server 314 may store user attributepreferences 128 or user output preferences 136 in user-authorizedaccounts and provide access to portable devices 308 and 310 to the userpreferences where the user of portable device 308 or portable device 310has access to the user-authorized accounts.

In addition, in the example, an attribute statistics server 320 collectsinformation about attribute-based preferences and attribute-based usagefrom one or more portable devices, such as portable device 308 andportable device 310. As previously described, a user may specify, inuser output preferences 136, the user's preference for howattribute-based usage data 144 can be shared with an entity, whichentities attribute-based usage data 144 can be shared with, and whenattribute-based usage data 144 can be shared. Store server 312 maycollect attribute-based usage data 144 from portable devices 308 and310, such as collecting information about what attributes users specifyin user attribute preferences 128 and collecting the number of items aparticular attribute is mapped to during each user shopping experience.Attribute statistics server 320 may also collect attribute preferencesspecified by users, as collected by store server 312, user profileserver 314, or directly from portable devices 308 and 310. Attributestatistics server 320 may identify, from collecting attribute-basedusage data 144, including user attribute preferences, from multipleusers, trends in attribute preferences. For example, attributestatistics server 320 may detect, from collected user attributepreferences, that a new attribute, specified by users, but not availablein most stores, is becoming preferred in a particular region, city, orother area. In another example, attribute statistics server 320 maydetect, from collected user attribute preferences, that a particularcombination of attributes are often set together by users, and predictpreferred attribute combinations. Users, sellers, and other entities maysubscribe to the statistics generated by attribute statistics server 320and may access a filtering interface, for specifying statisticsfiltering preferences, through a browser, application, or other softwareinterface at a system communicatively connected to attribute statisticsserver 320 through network 320.

FIG. 4 illustrates one example of a computer system in which the presentinvention may be implemented. The present invention may be performed ina variety of systems and combinations of systems, made up of functionalcomponents, such as the functional components described with referenceto computer system 400 and may be communicatively connected to anetwork, such as network 302. In one example, each of portable device120, signal registration server 306, portable device 308, portabledevice 310, store server 312, user profile server 314, and attributestatistics server 320 may implement one or more of the functionalcomponents described with reference to computer system 400.

Computer system 400 includes a bus 422 or other communication device forcommunicating information within computer system 400, and at least onehardware processing device, such as processor 412, coupled to bus 422for processing information. Bus 422 preferably includes low-latency andhigher latency paths that are connected by bridges and adapters andcontrolled within computer system 400 by multiple bus controllers. Whenimplemented as a server or node, computer system 400 may includemultiple processors designed to improve network servicing power. Wheremultiple processors share bus 422, additional controllers (not depicted)for managing bus access and locks may be implemented.

Processor 412 may be at least one general-purpose processor such as IBM®PowerPC® (IBM and PowerPC are registered trademarks of InternationalBusiness Machines Corporation) processor that, during normal operation,processes data under the control of software 750, which may include atleast one of application software, an operating system, middleware, andother code and computer executable programs accessible from a dynamicstorage device such as random access memory (RAM) 414, a static storagedevice such as Read Only Memory (ROM) 416, a data storage device, suchas mass storage device 418, or other data storage medium. Software,including operating system 460 and application software 470, mayinclude, but is not limited to, code, applications, protocols,interfaces, and processes for controlling one or more systems,including, but not limited to, portable device 120.

In one embodiment, the operations performed by processor 412 may controlthe operations of flowchart of FIG. 8 and other operations describedherein. Operations performed by processor 412 may be requested bysoftware, such as operating system 460 and application software 470, orother code or the steps of one embodiment of the invention might beperformed by specific hardware components that contain hardwired logicfor performing the steps, or by any combination of programmed computercomponents and custom hardware components.

Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that aspects of oneembodiment of the invention may be embodied as a system, method orcomputer program product. Accordingly, aspects of one embodiment of theinvention may take the form of an entirely hardware embodiment, anentirely software embodiment (including firmware, resident software,micro-code, etc.) or an embodiment containing software and hardwareaspects that may all generally be referred to herein as “circuit,”“module,” or “system.” Furthermore, aspects of one embodiment of theinvention may take the form of a computer program product embodied inone or more tangible computer readable medium(s) having computerreadable program code embodied thereon.

Any combination of one or more computer readable medium(s) may beutilized. The computer readable medium may be a computer readable signalmedium or a computer readable storage medium. A computer readablestorage medium may be, for example, but not limited to, an electronic,magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system,apparatus, device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. Morespecific examples (a non-exhaustive list) of the computer readablestorage medium would include the following: an electrical connectionhaving one or more wires, a portable computer diskette, a hard disk,such as mass storage device 418, a random access memory (RAM), such asRAM 414, a read-only memory (ROM) 416, an erasable programmableread-only memory (EPROM or Flash memory), an optical fiber, a portablecompact disc read-only memory (CDROM), an optical storage device, amagnetic storage device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing.In the context of this document, a computer readable storage medium maybe any tangible medium that can contain or store a program for use by orin connection with an instruction executing system, apparatus, ordevice.

A computer readable signal medium may include a propagated data signalwith the computer readable program code embodied therein, for example,in baseband or as part of a carrier wave. Such a propagated signal maytake any of a variety of forms, including, but not limited to,electro-magnetic, optical, or any suitable combination thereof. Acomputer readable signal medium may be any computer readable medium thatis not a computer readable storage medium and that can communicate,propagate, or transport a program for use by or in connection with aninstruction executable system, apparatus, or device.

Program code embodied on a computer readable medium may be transmittedusing any appropriate medium, including but not limited to, wireless,wireline, optical fiber cable, radio frequency (RF), etc., or anysuitable combination of the foregoing.

Computer program code for carrying out operations of on embodiment ofthe invention may be written in any combination of one or moreprogramming languages, including an object oriented programming languagesuch as Java, Smalltalk, C++ or the like and conventional proceduralprogramming languages, such as the “C” programming language or similarprogramming languages. The program code may execute entirely on theuser's computer, such as computer system 400, partly on the user'scomputer, as a stand-alone software package, partly on the user'scomputer and partly on a remote computer or entirely on the remotecomputer or server. In the latter scenario, the remote computer may beconnected to the user's computer through any type of network, such asnetwork 302, through a communication interface, such as networkinterface 432, over a network link that may be connected, for example,to network 302.

In the example, network interface 432 includes an adapter 434 forconnecting computer system 400 to network 302 through a link. Althoughnot depicted, network interface 432 may include additional software,such as device drivers, additional hardware and other controllers thatenable communication. When implemented as a server, computer system 400may include multiple communication interfaces accessible via multipleperipheral component interconnect (PCI) bus bridges connected to aninput/output controller, for example. In this manner, computer system400 allows connections to multiple clients via multiple separate portsand each port may also support multiple connections to multiple clients.

One embodiment of the invention is described herein with reference toflowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams of methods, apparatus(systems) and computer program products according to embodiments of theinvention. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that eachblock of the flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, andcombinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and/or blockdiagrams, can be implemented by computer program instructions. Thesecomputer program instructions may be provided to a processor of ageneral purpose computer, special purpose computer, or otherprogrammable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such thatthe instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer orother programmable data processing apparatus, create means forimplementing the functions/acts specified in the flowchart and/or blockdiagram block or blocks.

These computer program instructions may also be stored in acomputer-readable medium that can direct a computer, such as computersystem 400, or other programmable data processing apparatus to functionin a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in thecomputer-readable medium produce an article of manufacture includinginstruction means which implement the function/act specified in theflowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks.

The computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer,such as computer system 400, or other programmable data processingapparatus to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on thecomputer or other programmable apparatus to produce a computerimplemented process such that the instructions which execute on thecomputer or other programmable apparatus provide processes forimplementing the functions/acts specified in the flowchart and/or blockdiagram block or blocks.

Network interface 432, the network link to network 302, and network 302may use electrical, electromagnetic, or optical signals that carrydigital data streams. The signals through the various networks and thesignals on network 302, the network link to network 302, and networkinterface 432 which carry the digital data to and from computer system400, may be forms of carrier waves transporting the information.

In addition, computer system 400 may include multiple peripheralcomponents that facilitate input and output. These peripheral componentsare connected to multiple controllers, adapters, and expansion slots,such as input/output (I/O) interface 426, coupled to one of the multiplelevels of bus 422. For example, input device 424 may include, forexample, a microphone, a video capture device, an image scanning system,a keyboard, a mouse, or other input peripheral device, communicativelyenabled on bus 422 via I/O interface 426 controlling inputs. Inaddition, for example, output device 420 communicatively enabled on bus422 via I/O interface 426 for controlling outputs may include, forexample, one or more graphical display devices, audio speakers, andtactile detectable output interfaces, but may also include other outputinterfaces. In alternate embodiments of the present invention,additional or alternate input and output peripheral components may beadded.

Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the hardwaredepicted in FIG. 4 may vary. Furthermore, those of ordinary skill in theart will appreciate that the depicted example is not meant to implyarchitectural limitations with respect to the present invention.

Referring now to FIG. 5, a block diagram illustrates one example of auser interface for selecting user attribute preferences and user outputpreferences. In the example, user interface 502 illustrates current userpreferences 504. In the example, current user preferences 504 includesuser attribute preferences of “no gluten” and “no refined sugar” anduser output preferences, including a visual output preference of“standard” and a sharing preference of “share with store, whilein-store” and “share visualized attribute counts with statisticsserver”.

A store may broadcast attribute mappings 124 or an identifier foraccessing attribute mappings 124, such as from store server 312, wherethe broadcast is detectable by portable devices of users within thestore. The attribute preferences listed in current user preferences 504may be graphically adjusted, dynamically, to reflect a selection ofattributes from among the current user preferences that are available ina particular store, as indicated by the attribute markings provided bythe store. For example, if attribute mappings 124 for a particular storeinclude an attribute of “no gluten”, but do not include an attribute of“no refined sugar”, then “no gluten” within current user preferences504, may be graphically distinguished from “no refined sugar”, tographically indicate that the “no gluten” attribute is mapped to withthe current settings for attribute mappings 124 and that the “no refinedsugar” attribute is not mapped to within the current settings forattribute mappings 124.

In addition, user interface 502 includes multiple selectable options forupdating current user preferences 504 including a selectable option 510to update the attributes selected and a selectable option 512 to updatethe output preferences selected.

Responsive to a user selection of update attributes 510, the user may beprovided with a selectable list of available attributes specified withinattribute mappings 124. In addition, through a user selection of updateattributes 510, the user may be provided with an interface through whichthe user enters the name or other identifier of an attribute the userwould like to be marked in the store, where the user's entered attributeis shared according to the user's sharing preferences with store server312, attribute statistics server 320, and other systems.

Responsive to a user selection of update output prefs 512, the user maybe provided with a selectable list of output types for visualizingattributes. In addition, responsive to a user selection of update outputprefs 512, the user may be provide with a selectable list of entitieswith whom to select to share attribute-based usage data. In the example,the user has selected to share attribute preferences with the store,which permits the user's portable device to communicate attributepreferences to store server 312 through a local network while the useris in the store, for example. In addition, in the example, the user hasselected to share attribute counts, meaning the number of times that aparticular attribute is mapped to during a session, with statisticsserver 320, for example. A user may further specify a particularstatistics server, a particular store, or other criteria for controllingsharing of attribute-based usage data.

With reference now to FIG. 6, a block diagram illustrates one example ofa statistics interface for selecting user attribute statistics reportingpreferences. In the example, a statistics interface 602 includes currentstatistics preferences 604 for an entity requesting attribute statisticsreports and a selectable option 610 for the entity to update statisticspreferences. A server that collects attribute-based usage data frommultiple portable devices, such as attribute statistics server 320, mayprovide statistics interface 602 and filter collected data according tothe filtering preferences selected by an entity. In the example, theentity has selected current statistics preferences 604 specifying areport of “no gluten” attribute statistics by state, “no refined sugar”attribute statistics by city and “vitamin D” attribute statistics bycounty. Based on an entity's current statistics preferences attributestatistics server 320 adjusts the statistics reported to the entity fromthe attribute preferences and other attribute-based usage data collectedby attribute statistics server 320 from multiple portable devices andstore servers.

Referring now to FIG. 7, a block diagram depicts one example of an RFIDtag mapping interface for selecting attribute-based identifiers and formapping attribute-based identifiers to attributes. In the example, anRFID tag mapping interface 702 displays a list of available RFID signalidentifiers 710 available for selection as attribute-based identifiers,a list of current attributes to map to 714, and a list of currentmappings 720, in addition to displaying a selectable option 716 to addtag identifiers to list 710, a selectable option 718 to add attributesto list 714 and a selectable option 712 to map identifiers selected fromlist 710 to an attribute selected from list 714, to add to currentmappings list 720. In one example, a user may select from among lists710 and 714 and may select from among selectable options 716, 712, and718 by positioning and selecting using pointer 706, or through otherinput devices.

In the example, list 710 includes the RFID signal identifier of data orfrequencies read from signals from RFID tags available for placement asattribute-based RFID tags. RFID tags may include data that includes anattribute-based signal characteristic, such as “ATTR”, and a separateidentifier, such as “BDBD”. In addition, RFID tags may include data thatis not uniquely identified as attribute data, such as “GGGG”, but oncemapped to an attribute in current mappings 720, “GGGG” is anattribute-based identifier that specifies an attribute-based signalcharacteristic and an identifier that maps to an attribute. Further,RFID signal identifiers may include a frequency that may be identifiedas an attribute-based identifier, such as “frequency Y”.

In the current mappings list 720, the mappings are illustrated withattribute-based identifiers “ATTR BB” and “ATTR BC” both mapped to theattribute of “no gluten”. Multiple attribute-based identifiers may bemapped to a same attribute.

In addition, in the example, in current mappings list 720, the mappingsare illustrated with the attribute-based identifier “AA” mapped to theattribute of “no dairy”. In one example, a store may purchase multipleRFID tags with the RFID signal identifier “AA” output from each tag,where the store maps the RFID tags to an attribute to use the RFID tagsas attribute-based, item-independent RFID tags.

In addition, in the example, in current mappings list 720, the mappingsare illustrated with the attribute-based identifier frequency of“frequency X” mapped to the attribute of “vitamin D”. In one example,multiple RFID tags may be set to a particular frequency for mapping to aparticular attribute.

In the example, current mappings 720 includes attribute-basedidentifiers “ATTR BB”, “ATTR BC”, “AA”, and “frequency X”. In theexample, the attribute-based signal characteristics are “ATTR”, “AA”,and “frequency X”, where “ATTR” is specified as a standardattribute-based signal characteristic and “AA” and “frequency X” areattribute-based signal characteristics because they are mapped to incurrent mappings 720. Once an RFID signal identifier is identified ashaving one of the attribute-based signal characteristics in currentmappings 720, the attribute mapped to the particular attribute-basedidentifier in the RFID signal identifier is identified from currentmappings 720.

With reference now to FIG. 8, a high level logic flowchart depicts aprocess and program for identifying and visualizing attributes of itemsbased on the proximity of attribute-based RFID signals to the items. Inthe example, the process and program starts at block 800 and thereafterproceeds to block 802. Block 802 illustrates a determination whether anRFID signal identifier is received. The RFID signal identifier mayinclude a frequency of the signal and data digitized from the signal byan RFID reader. At block 802, if an RFID signal identifier is received,then the process passes to block 804.

Block 804 illustrates identifying a selection of attribute mappings fora current location from among the attribute mappings. Next, block 806depicts comparing the RFID signal identifier with attribute-based signalcharacteristics in the selection of attribute mappings. Thereafter,block 808 illustrates a determination whether the RFID signal identifiermatches an attribute-based signal characteristic. At block 808, if theRFID signal identifier does not match an attribute-based signalcharacteristic, then the process ends. At block 808, if the RFID signalidentifier does match an attribute-based signal characteristic, then theprocess passes to block 810.

Block 810 illustrates mapping the RFID signal identifier to a particularattribute based on the matching attribute mapping. Next, block 812depicts a determination whether the identified attribute is specified inthe user attribute preferences. At block 812, if the identifiedattribute is not specified in the user attribute preferences, then theprocess ends. At block 812, if the identified attribute is specified inthe user attribute preferences, then the process passes to block 814.

Block 814 depicts identifying the location of the RFID tag emitting theRFID signal within a captured image. Next, block 816 illustratesselecting an overlay image for the attribute based on the user outputpreferences for the attribute. Thereafter, block 818 illustratesapplying the selected overlay image to the location within an overlayinterface, and the process ends.

The flowchart and block diagrams in the Figures illustrate thearchitecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementationsof systems, methods and computer program products according to variousembodiments of the present invention. In this regard, each block in theflowchart or block diagrams may represent a module, segment, or portionof code, which comprises one or more executable instructions forimplementing the specified logical function(s). It should also be notedthat, in some alternative implementations, the functions noted in theblock may occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, twoblocks shown in succession may, in fact, occur substantiallyconcurrently, or the blocks may sometimes occur in the reverse order,depending upon the functionality involved. It will also be noted thateach block of the block diagrams and/or flowchart illustration, andcombinations of blocks in the block diagrams and/or flowchartillustration, can be implemented by special purpose hardware-basedsystems that perform the specified functions or acts, or combinations ofspecial purpose hardware and computer instructions.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particularembodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. Asused herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended toinclude the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicatesotherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises”and/or “comprising”, when used in this specification specify thepresence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements,and/or components, but not preclude the presence or addition of one ormore other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components,and/or groups thereof.

The corresponding structures, materials, acts, and equivalents of allmeans or step plus function elements in the claims below are intended toinclude any structure, material, or act for performing the function incombination with other claimed elements as specifically claimed. Thedescription of the one or more embodiments of the invention has beenpresented for purposes of illustration and description, but is notintended to be exhaustive or limited to the invention in the formdisclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to thoseof ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spiritof the invention. The embodiment was chosen and described in order tobest explain the principles of the invention and the practicalapplication, and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art tounderstand the invention for various embodiments with variousmodifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.

While the invention has been particularly shown and described withreference to one or more embodiments, it will be understood by thoseskilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be madetherein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method for identifying items comprising:receiving, by a computer system, a particular RFID signal identifyingthat a particular attribute is associated with a particular item placedproximate to an RFID tag emitting the particular RFID signal, whereinthe particular RFID signal is identified from among a plurality of RFIDsignals, wherein a selection of the plurality of RFID signals are eachassociated with a separate attribute from among a plurality ofattributes, by: identifying an RFID signal identifier from theparticular RFID signal; comparing the RFID signal identifier with atleast one attribute-based signal characteristic; and responsive to theRFID signal identifier matching the at least one attribute-based signalcharacteristic, identifying a particular attribute mapping from among aselection of attribute mappings that maps the RFID signal identifier tothe particular attribute; and displaying, by the computer system, avisual representation depicting that the particular item is associatedwith the particular attribute.
 2. The method according to claim 1,wherein receiving, by a computer system, a particular RFID signalidentifying that a particular attribute is associated with a particularitem placed proximate to the RFID tag emitting the particular RFIDsignal, wherein the particular RFID signal is identified from among aplurality of RFID signals, wherein a selection of the plurality of RFIDsignals are each associated with a separate attribute from among aplurality of attributes, further comprises: receiving the particularRFID signal identifying that the particular attribute is associated withthe particular item, wherein the particular attribute indicates anabsence of a type of ingredient.
 3. The method according to claim 1,further comprising: identifying a current location of the computersystem; and selecting the selection of attribute mappings specified forthe current location from among a plurality of attribute mappingsspecified for a plurality of locations.
 4. The method according to claim1, wherein identifying the RFID signal identifier from the particularRFID signal further comprises identifying a particular frequency of theparticular RFID signal; and wherein comparing the RFID signal identifierwith the at least one attribute-based signal characteristic furthercomprises identifying the particular frequency as matching at least onefrequency specified as the at least one attribute-based signalcharacteristic.
 5. The method according to claim 1, wherein identifyingthe RFID signal identifier from the particular RFID signal furthercomprises identifying a selection of data from the particular RFIDsignal; and wherein comparing the RFID signal identifier with the atleast one attribute-based signal characteristic further comprisesidentifying the selection of data as matching at least one dataidentifier specified as the at least one attribute-based signalcharacteristic.
 6. The method according to claim 1, wherein displaying,by the computer system, a visual representation depicting that theparticular item is associated with the particular attribute, furthercomprises: responsive to determining that the particular attribute isselected by a user in a selection of user attribute preferences,identifying a location of the RFID tag emitting the RFID signal;selecting an overlay image for the particular attribute; accessing animage of a current view captured by an image capture device; identifyingthe location of the RFID tag within the current view; and applying theselected overlay image to the location within an overlay interface. 7.The method according to claim 6, wherein applying the selected overlayimage to the location within the overlay interface further comprises:applying the selected overlay image to the location within a displayinterface through which a user views an image of the current viewcaptured through the image capture device.
 8. The method according toclaim 1, further comprising: tracking a number of times the particularattribute is identified from one or more RFID signals; and sharing thenumber of times the particular attribute is identified, with an entity.9. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: receiving, bythe computer system, a second RFID signal identifying that a secondattribute from among the plurality of attributes is associated with theparticular item placed proximate to the RFID tag emitting the secondRFID signal; and displaying, by the computer system, the visualrepresentation depicting that the particular item is associated with theparticular attribute and the second attribute.
 10. A system foridentifying items comprising: a computer system operative to receive aparticular RFID signal identifying that a particular attribute isassociated with a particular item placed proximate to an RFID tagemitting the particular RFID signal, wherein the particular RFID signalis identified from among a plurality of RFID signals, wherein aselection of the plurality of RFID signals are each associated with aseparate attribute from among a plurality of attributes; the computersystem operative to identify an RFID signal identifier from theparticular RFID signal; the computer system operative to compare theRFID signal identifier with at least one attribute-based signalcharacteristic; the computer system responsive to the RFID signalidentifier matching the at least one attribute-based signalcharacteristic, operative to identify a particular attribute mappingfrom among a selection of attribute mappings that maps the RFID signalidentifier to the particular attribute; and the computer systemoperative to display a visual representation depicting that theparticular item is associated with the particular attribute.
 11. Thesystem according to claim 10, wherein the particular attribute indicatesan absence of a type of ingredient.
 12. The system according to claim10, further comprising: the computer system operative to identify acurrent location of the computer system; and the computer systemoperative to select the selection of attribute mappings specified forthe current location from among a plurality of attribute mappingsspecified for a plurality of locations.
 13. The system according toclaim 10, wherein the computer system operative to identify the RFIDsignal identifier from the particular RFID signal further comprises thecomputer system operative to identify a particular frequency of theparticular RFID signal; and wherein the computer system operative tocompare the RFID signal identifier with the at least one attribute-basedsignal characteristic further comprises the computer system operative toidentify the particular frequency as matching at least one frequencyspecified as the at least one attribute-based signal characteristic. 14.The system according to claim 10, wherein the computer system operativeto identify the RFID signal identifier from the particular RFID signalfurther comprises the computer system operative to identify a selectionof data from the particular RFID signal; and wherein the computer systemoperative to compare the RFID signal identifier with the at least oneattribute-based signal characteristic further comprises the computersystem operative to identify the selection of data as matching at leastone data identifier specified as the at least one attribute-based signalcharacteristic.
 15. The system according to claim 10, wherein thecomputer system operative to display a visual representation depictingthat the particular item is associated with the particular attribute,further comprises: the computer system, responsive to determining thatthe particular attribute is selected by a user in a selection of userattribute preferences, operative to identify a location of the RFID tagemitting the RFID signal; the computer system operative to select anoverlay image for the particular attribute; the computer systemoperative to access an image of a current view captured by an imagecapture device; the computer system operative to identify the locationof the RFID tag within the current view; and the computer systemoperative to apply the selected overlay image to the location within anoverlay interface.
 16. The system according to claim 15, wherein thecomputer system operative to apply the selected overlay image to thelocation within the overlay interface further comprises: the computersystem operative to apply the selected overlay image to the locationwithin a display interface through which a user views an image of thecurrent view captured through the image capture device.
 17. The systemaccording to claim 10, further comprising: the computer system operativeto track a number of times the particular attribute is identified fromone or more RFID signals; and the computer system operative to share thenumber of times the particular attribute is identified, with an entity.18. A computer program product for identifying items, the computerprogram product comprising a tangible computer-readable storage mediumhaving program code embodied therewith, the program code executable by acomputer to: receive, by a computer, a particular RFID signalidentifying that a particular attribute is associated with a particularitem placed proximate to an RFID tag emitting the particular RFIDsignal, wherein the particular RFID signal is identified from among aplurality of RFID signals, wherein a selection of the plurality of RFIDsignals are each associated with a separate attribute from among aplurality of attributes; identify, by the computer, an RFID signalidentifier from the particular RFID signal; compare, by the computer,the RFID signal identifier with at least one attribute-based signalcharacteristic; responsive to the RFID signal identifier matching the atleast one attribute-based signal characteristic, identify, by thecomputer, a particular attribute mapping from among a selection ofattribute mappings that maps the RFID signal identifier to theparticular attribute; and display, by the computer, a visualrepresentation depicting that the particular item is associated with theparticular attribute.